Williamson County leaders are moving forward with plans for a massive new justice complex in Georgetown, but the proposed location is drawing growing opposition from nearby residents concerned about safety, traffic and the impact on surrounding neighborhoods.
The Williamson County Commissioners Court approved a contract in March to purchase roughly 253 acres in southeast Georgetown for approximately $75.8 million. County officials say the land would eventually house a new jail, sheriff’s office, district courts and other county justice operations as the county continues to experience explosive population growth.
According to county leaders, the current jail and court facilities are rapidly running out of space. Officials say the proposed site near S.E. Inner Loop would give Williamson County room to expand justice services for decades while creating a centralized government campus. County planning documents show the project could be developed in phases, with full completion potentially stretching into 2030 or 2031.
But many Georgetown residents who live near the proposed site say they were blindsided by the project and are now speaking out against placing a jail complex so close to homes and schools.
During recent public meetings, neighbors raised concerns about inmate releases near residential communities, increased traffic congestion and possible impacts on property values. Some residents pointed to the site’s proximity to Wagner Middle School, Mitchell Elementary School and nearby neighborhoods including Saddle Creek and Carlson Place.
“I think most people in this room do agree a new jail is necessary, but this location is not,” one resident said during public comment at a county meeting.
County officials have defended the proposal, arguing the site was selected because it offers enough acreage to support long-term expansion while remaining close to other county facilities in Georgetown, the county seat. Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey previously said the land purchase gives the county flexibility to plan for future needs as Williamson County’s population continues to surge.
The county has also emphasized that purchasing the land does not finalize the exact design or timeline for the justice center. Officials say additional planning, environmental reviews and public outreach efforts are still underway.
Williamson County is among the fastest-growing counties in Texas and the nation, with population estimates now approaching 750,000 residents. County leaders say that growth is putting increasing pressure on courts, law enforcement and jail operations.
